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While conducting a U.S. National Underwater and Marine Agency study off the coast of
Peru, Special Projects Director Dirk Pitt answers an emergency call to help two lost
Americans. Rescuing the archeologists from a sinkhole, he and his friends are
soon caught in a ring of art thieves, known only as the mysterious
Solpemachaco. Named for a mythical seven-headed creature, the group has eyes
and ears everywhere, allowing them to anticipate Pitt's (and NUMA's) every
move. They are willing to destroy anything and anyone in their way, including
Pitt, some noted archeologists, a U.S. congresswoman, and some prehistoric
sculptures. Of course, Dirk Pitt likes challenges.
From the moment he shows up in a NUMA helicopter to the moment he's "caught" by
a holiday fisherman, Dirk Pitt faces death at least a half a dozen times. Stuck
in a slime-filled well of water without a rope? He ties a loop to a miner's
pick and climbs out. Trapped on a ferryboat with guns trained on
him? He dives overboard and hides in the river. Floating in an
underground river with a broken wrist, cracked ribs, and a bullet whole in the
shoulder? He finds an inflatable raft. Whatever the situation (and
these are just a sampling of Dirk's difficulties), despite the odds, Pitt makes
it.
This is not reality as we know it; however, like in any good adventure story the odds of
survival aren't important. Because of Cussler's powerful writing, you are kept
on the edge of your seat, glued to the book, wondering how (not if) Dirk Pitt will rescue
himself and his friends.
INCA GOLD is more than incredible situations and lucky coincidences; it is also about the
importance of tradition and respect for history. Through the Native American tribes that
help Pitt escape the agents of the Solpemachaco, Cussler introduces ancient rites and
idols. One essential character, who subdues the Solpemachaco army trying to
loot 400-year-old Incan gold, searches for his tribes stolen ritual
idols. Through similar subplots, Cussler weaves ancient legends and Native
American lore into the adventure.
Admittedly, there are gaps in the time line (one moment Dirk is on a mountaintop with his
friends, then he's on a ferryboat surrounded by the enemy), that disrupt the otherwise
seamless story. These moments are insignificant, though, when you are caught up
in the excitement of the action. Dirk's humor, and ability to outguess the
Solpemachaco, more than makes up for the small lapses. In the end, Inca Gold is
an unforgettable adventure and a great introduction to Dirk Pitt and his
friends.
--- Reviewed by Amee Vyas
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